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Son of Man Series No 4 The Finger of God

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The son of man – The Finger of God.

Jesus the Son of man during his ministry identified himself saying that ‘he and the Father were one.’  As I understand in this incident at the temple we can see in the manner and actions Jesus reflecting the truth of his words.

 “Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father in me; or else believe me for the sake of the works themselves.” John 14: 11

“ . . . but also called God his Father, making himself equal with God.” John 5:18.

In the early morning Jesus went to the temple at Jerusalem; all the people came to him, he sat down and taught them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman before him, they asked. “Teacher, this woman had been caught in the act of adultery. Now the law of Moses commanded us to stone such. What do you say about her?” Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground, then he stood up and said, “Let him without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.” And once more he bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. Everyone gradually walked away leaving only the woman before him. “Where are your accusers, has no one condemned you?” “No one, Lord.” “Neither do I condemn you; go and do not sin again.” John 8: 1-11.

This incident recorded by John, I believe reveals the woman caught in adultery as representing Israel, the wife of God. When we look at the incident on the Exodus journey, while Moses was on the mountain receiving the ten commandments  the people committed adultery by turning to worship the golden calf. Exodus 32: 1-6. 34: 14, 15.

Jesus responded saying, “Let him without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her?”  The people were convicted of their sin and walked away.

Moses heard the noise from the camp and when he saw them worshipping the golden calf, he threw down the stone tablets and broke them. Exodus 32: 7-19.

Jesus wrote on the ground with his finger, he did this twice and what he did was  significant, he was pointing to God writing the commandments on the two tablets of stone with his finger, the finger of God. This I see as Jesus one with his Father God.

“God gave to Moses, when he had made an end of speaking with him on Mount Sinai, the two tablets of the testimony, tablets of stone, written with the finger of God.”  Exodus 31: 18.

God’s mercy

Jesus didn’t condemn her, even though she was guilty of adultery being a married woman. He told her to ‘sin no more’.

“I will have mercy, on whom I will have mercy, ”Romans 9: 15 3, 19.

God’s mercy prevailed when Moses pleaded with God, Him being the stronger part of the covenant showed mercy towards Israel after they worshipped the golden calf. Exodus 32: 30-33. 33: 17.

Prayer

Father God, Jesus in your mercy you saved her life and by grace giving her an opportunity to start afresh. Thank you, that you are still doing this today, no sin is too great to be forgiven and I pray that your will be done in someone’s life today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The Finger of God

Jesus the finger of God writes his laws on the ground of our heart. Hebrews 10: 16.  

God’s mercy has the power to condemn, but through faith in Jesus he redeems us from the sin of Adam and Eve and all our sin that stands between us and our Holy God. Through repentance we die with Christ as he takes our sin upon himself and by God’s grace raises us with Christ, in his resurrection he writes his laws in our heart and we’re seated with him in heavenly place, blessed with every spiritual blessing in heaven. Luke 10:27. Hebrews 10: 16.

The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, righteousness and judgement.

After we’ve received Jesus as our Saviour and Lord, we soon realise there are things in our life that we need to get right with God and as we begin to learn more about the ways of God through our nature being transformed, we feel how God feels about sin.

The power of God acts on the righteous truth through our transformed nature and the commandments written in the heart, we have the power to resist temptation and be set free by the word and Spirit from the powers of darkness that work against the commandments.                  

“If you love me you will keep my commandments.” John 14: 15. 15: 10.

“If I cast out demons by ‘the finger of God’ then the Kingdom of God had come upon you.” Luke 11:20. Exodus 5: 1. 8: 16-20

We’re not judged by whether we have kept the law a set of rules because the commandments are fulfilled in love, they’re like a stick of Blackpool rock with the words permeating through the whole stick, our mind, will and soul. We become transparent, nothing hidden from our Lord God, honesty and truth at the forefront of how we interact with the Lord and other people.

Prayer

“You shall love the Lord your God with all of your heart, and with all of your soul, and with all of your strength, and with all of your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.” Luke 10: 27.

Lord God, fill us with your love and the opportunity to share your love and compassion. Empower us as we walk in the commandments written in our heart, your word acted on by your Holy Spirit. Let your love fulfil the law and bring healing to the bruised heart, cherishing it and making it your own. Your love is fearless and yet love gives in to love. Help us, Jesus to love God and others, as you loved God your Father and all the people, in Jesus’ name. Amen

The Church the virgin Bride of Christ  

The woman was not condemned by Jesus for her adultery but was told by Jesus ‘to sin no more.’

When a person comes to faith in Jesus, they become a member of Christ’s body, the church. The sins of the past are wiped out, it’s a fresh start.

Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit we separate ourselves from allegiance to other religions, which the Bible terms as adultery. This is also reflected in the Christian personal life in having one husband or wife.

New Age religion takes its spirituality from multiple religions and morality is left to the individual.

Jesus endorsed marriage, but I believe that Jesus was not married. The disciples and followers were truthful men and women and they gave no indication that Jesus had a wife.

The son of man Jesus, in his humanity he reflected spiritually the commandments written in the heart, and the church being his virgin bride.

The commandments are for today they are and will always be relevant and essential to the world.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you, for writing your commandments upon our hearts, fulfilled in love. Our journey of life may mean that we can’t continue to share our life with a husband or a wife, or we have to work on Sundays or meet and pray with people from other religions, but you know that in all things about us and our circumstances and your will for us. Jesus you are the centre of our life. Help us, to abide in Jesus’ love and please forgive us when we fail. In our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ’s name. Amen

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Son of man series No 3 Jesus the Son of man respected authorities

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Series No 3 – Jesus the Son of man respected authorities

“The truth is incontrovertible. Malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end, there it is.” Winston Churchill.

“Then the Pharisees went and took counsel how to entangle him in his talk. “And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true, and teach the way of God truthfully, and care for no man; for you do not regard the position of men.” Matthew 22: 15, 16.

They accepted that Jesus was a truthful man in his interpretation of the scriptures, and he spoke the truth regarding the hypocrisy of some of their religious leaders. But their suggestion that he had scant regard for the ordinary person and people in authority wasn’t true.

Jairus the synagogue ruler reveals Jesus’ regard for him and his daughter and the lady desperately in need of being healed: Jairus came to Jesus asking him to go with him to his house where his daughter lay dying. They set off and as they were going, a lady touched the hem of his garment, which caused Jesus to stop and ask who touched him. The lady owned up and Jesus responded to her saying her faith had made her well and to go in peace. Meanwhile the news came to Jairus that his daughter had died, Jesus’ response he told him not to fear, only believe. Peter, James and John accompanied him to the house where the mourners had gathered. In the presence of his disciples, Jairus and his wife, Jesus took her by the hand, saying “Little girl, I say to you, arise” and she immediately got up and walked and he strictly charged them that nothing should be said to anyone about what had taken place.  Mark 5: 21-43.

Jesus showed respect and discretion for Jairus position as a Ruler of a synagogue. Matthew probably sought the family’s permission to include this incident when writing his Gospel.

Prayer

“The truth shall make you free.” John 8: 32

Heavenly Father help us to respect the truth and to live by the truth. To have regard for the positions of responsibility that people carry, especially in the church. Help us to follow Jesus he came to serve and not to be served. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Jesus the Son of man proved his authority was of God.

Mark records Jesus was at home at Capernaum, whether he was at his own house or he was staying with Simon Peter it’s not clear, but the house was full of people including Pharisees and teachers of the law and people from Jerusalem, they had come to hear him preach the word.

The meeting was interrupted when the roof above where Jesus was standing began to be removed. The clatter of debris and the dust falling on where Jesus stood, above him four men had made a hole in the roof big enough to lower a stretcher carrying a man.

Jesus wasn’t troubled by confusion and noise or perturbed at his home being broken into. To the Pharisees and scribes present Jesus was the intruder breaking into their traditions and interpretations of the law,

In this turbulent scene Jesus proved that he is God made visible in the flesh.

The dust had not settled, when Jesus saw the faith of the four friends of the paralysed man, and responded by saying to him, “My son your sins are forgiven.” He discerned that some of the scribes present questioned in their hearts, “Why does this man speak thus? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins, but God alone?”  Jesus responded knowing what they were thinking said, “Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins’, he said to the paralytic, “I say to you rise, take up your pallet and go home.” The man got up before them all and went home. Mark 2: 5-12. John 9: 34.

This incident proved that Jesus had the authority to forgive sin; the Jews believed that only God could forgive sins and that sin was the cause of sickness, so by healing the paralysed man Jesus proved that he was God, the man was healed, his sin had been forgiven.  “The Messiah’s Secret” 2001 by Dorothy Newton.

In another situation Jesus said that not every sickness is a result of personal or hereditary sin. We read of the account of the man who was healed of blindness from birth. “The disciples asked Jesus, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind.” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man had sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him.” John 9: 1-3.

In 2013 the optician told me that I had cataracts coming on both my eyes. I prayed for healing praying against an hereditary spirit of blindness. In 2016 the optician told me that I had a cataract on the centre of one of my eyes and I would need it removed in a few months time. I believe that the Lord has healed my eye, I’ve prayed the same prayer and I refuse all that would come to me from down the hereditary lines.  I pray daily for forgiveness of my sins knowingly or what I’ve done in ignorance. It only takes five minutes or so. Thank you Lord.

The passionate faith of the four men who believed in Jesus authority to heal their friend and their determination to help him that led them to break into Jesus’ house.

God’s passionate love for us led him to break into world affairs, in order to die for us on the cross. God raised Jesus from the dead and sent his Holy Spirit to be received by us as a gift from heaven. (After Jesus’ ascension into heaven)

The Holy Spirit fills us with a passionate longing for people to know  Jesus our Saviour God.

Today the question still arises in people’s hearts, “Is Jesus God?”  Under the banner of ‘The Church in Rammy’ chatting to people on the street on questions of faith is proving a challenge and a blessing.

On the 2019 Chocolate Festival Weekend, two ladies approached me and asked, “Is Jesus God? My response was “Jesus is the word of God clothed in the flesh,” this is how I relate to Jesus my Saviour; his words are Spirit and life.

John the apostle in his first letter wrote, “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life— 2 the life was made manifest, and we saw it, and testify to it, and proclaim to you the eternal life which was with the Father and was made manifest to us— 3 that which we have seen and heard we proclaim also to you, so that you may have fellowship with us; and our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus Christ.” 1 John 1: 1-3

Jesus is the living word, his words bring forth life. Genesis 1   The Sermon on the Mount is where we find a variety of Jesus teachings recorded by Matthew. Chapters 5-7.                                                                        John wrote, “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth; we have beheld his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father.” John 1: 14. 

Paul wrote, “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2: 9-11

Prayer 

Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus, his words of authority are working among people today bringing forth the joy of knowing you, Help us to know more about your love and to be able to communicate your love and regard to those who have doubts, misunderstandings about whether Jesus is God. In Jesus’ name.                                                                                                             

Jesus breaking into the Church today by showing no partiality between Christians.

Jesus spoke directly to Martha this crucial word about the resurrection. In doing so he showed no partiality between her and the 12 disciples.

How excited and humbled Martha  must have been when she shared the words about Jesus to the disciples and followers of Jesus, “I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” Martha’s reply, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, he who is coming into the world.” John 11: 25-27.

Jesus our Lord God spoke directly to Martha choosing her to receive this breath-taking glorious word about the resurrection in Jesus.

The question I’ve asked myself, “Why didn’t Jesus choose a woman to be one of the twelve?”

Jesus reveals that he has assigned the twelve disciples to sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel in the future new world. Below the promise Jesus gave the disciples:

 “Truly I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of man shall sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” Matthew 19: 28.

“You are those who have continued with me in my trials; and I assign to you, as my Father assigned to me, a kingdom, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”  Luke 22: 28-30.

It’s interesting to note that after Israel reached the Promised Land, and later during the period of the Judges, Deborah was a judge over Israel. Judges 4: 4.

Therefore, Jesus in his authority chose who he wanted to be judges over the twelve tribes of Israel and no women were chosen.  None of the women, had been with him from the beginning of his ministry.

The disciples anointing I believe to be Judges, took place on the evening of the day of the resurrection. Jesus breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any they are retained.” John 20: 23. Numbers 11: 25-30

After Pentecost Peter made judgements over Ananias and Sapphira when they committed themselves to giving the proceeds from the sale of their land, to the Jerusalem community.

When Ananias came before Peter, he said how much he had received for the land, but Peter said to to him that he lied about the amount received, as Peter spoke Ananias fell down and died,  Later Sapphira came before Peter, he said to her, did she sell the land for so much? She replied, “Yes, for so much.” Peter passed sentence upon her, “The feet of those who buried your husband are at the door and they will carry you out, immediately she fell down and died.” Peter used his authority as a Judge over the community. They were individually accountable for their sin, as it’s personal salvation. Acts 5: 1-11. 8: 17-24. 12: 15-23.

There is no evidence since the apostles of the church having any power on making judgements over people’s sin. As I understand the apostles’ ministry will continue in the new world.  It’s important to note that the gifts of the Holy spirit are still given to the Church.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank your Holy Spirit leading us into all truth. Thank you for Jesus being revealed to us through the testimony of many witnesses that he is God made visible in the flesh. Thank you, for your living word to us from Jesus. may the Lord use his word to glorify his name in our lives.

Thank you, for blessing us, in knowing Jesus our Lord and Saviour and nothing can separate us from the love of God. In Jesus’ glorious name. Amen.

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Son of Man Series No 2 A Friend of Tax Collectors and Sinners

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Series No 2

Son of Man – A Friend of Tax Collectors and Sinners

RSV Bible

Jesus, (ben adam) son of man, enjoyed the company of his friends, he was the disciple’s teacher and he called them to be the first missionaries to take out the good news of the coming kingdom. His disciples met ordinary people as well as their rulers, religious leaders and Roman authorities with the kingdom message.

Jesus was popular among the people, but unpopular among the religious Jews especially the Pharisees. Jesus knew what they were saying about him when he said, “The Son of man came eating and drinking and they say “Behold a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners. Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds” Matthew 11: 19.

There was wisdom in calling Matthew to be his disciple, Jesus deliberately included Matthew the tax collector, his inclusion must have drawn the outcasts towards Jesus the lost sheep of the house of Israel. It was a turning point in Matthew life when Jesus asked him to follow him, to receive God’s mercy and forgiveness and be a witness to Jesus’ incredible ministry.

Prayer

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” Proverbs 9: 10.

Lord, help us to fulfil your call to serve with others in whatever their background, circumstances or situation. Jesus didn’t come to condemn people, but to save people, may we do the same. In Jesus’ name Amen.

God’s wisdom justified by her deeds

On the Sabbath Day Jesus went into a synagogue, amongst the people gathered there was a man who was described as having a withered hand.  Someone said to Jesus, “Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?” In the recorded account it says, “So they might accuse him”

But Jesus in his wisdom justified his deeds saying: “What man of you, if he has one sheep that falls into a pit on the sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? So, it is lawful to do good on the sabbath!” Matthew 12: 9-14

The Pharisees who were present went out of the synagogue and began to collaborate with others to condemn him.

Jesus had observed that they made exceptions on the sabbath day by pulling the sheep from the pit. Jesus the Lord of the sabbath said, ‘that it was lawful to do good on the Sabbath day.’

A friend of mine said, “God, meant resting, not tying people up. Today they (Jews) are not allowed to open their fridge door as the light will come on.”

Prayer

Lord thank you, for the rest we have entered into by knowing your provision of mercy and grace. When I fall into sin that you would lift me out and forgive me. Help me to walk humbly with other Christians not looking to the left or to the right, but to focus on Jesus my redeemer, the way, the truth and the life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

God was the stronger partner in his covenant with Israel and he showed mercy in his response when they broke the covenant laws.

The Exodus journey:

Moses entered the camp with the two stone tablets, the commandments were written on them. When he saw the golden calf that they had made in his absence, he was so angry that he threw the stone tablets down breaking them. Afterwards Moses pleaded with God that he wouldn’t remove his presence from them. God in his mercy responded favourably He continued to journey with them.

Exodus 33: 3 “God said, “I will not go up among you, lest I consume you on the way, for you are a stiff-necked people.”

Exodus 34: 8,9, 17.  “Moses made haste to bow his head towards the earth and worshipped. And he said, “If now I have found favour in thy sight, O Lord, let the Lord, I pray thee, go in the midst of us, although it is a stiff-necked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for thy inheritance.”

“and the Lord said to Moses, “This very thing that you have spoken I will do; for you have found favour in my sight, and I know you by name.”

Paul wrote in connection with this incident, Romans 9: 14-16. “What shall we say then? Is there injustice on God’s part? By no means! For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion. So, it depends not upon man’s will or exertion, but upon God’s mercy.” Exodus 33: 19.

Mercy – Forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm. (Dictionary)

“I desire mercy not sacrifice.”

Jesus met some of Matthew’s colleges at Matthew’s home and they enjoyed a meal together. Some of them could have been Romans. The Jewish tax collectors were seen as collaborating with the Roman occupation authorities. The Jewish tax collectors were called outcasts. Under law any contact with a Gentile had to be cleansed with ritual washings. Matthew 10: 6. 15: 24

The Pharisees seeing them with Jesus asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” When Jesus heard what they had said, he remarked, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy not sacrifice,’ for I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” Matthew 9: 10-13

Jesus gave his disciples some homework to search the scriptures and learn for themselves the meaning of ‘I desire mercy not sacrifice’.

Hosea prophesied, “For I desire love not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” Hosea 6: 6.

‘God loves the sinner but hates the sin’ As Paul wrote that God doesn’t condone sin by having mercy towards the sinner. We know that sin is detrimental to us, the product of sin: anger, jealousy, strife, deceit, mistrust, hurt, pain and vengeance and many more effects of sin.

Jesus the physician heals not only the symptoms of sin, but also the root cause which was referred to in Son of man Part 1 When the first Adam’s sin was inherited by all mankind and the consequences resulted in eternal death.

The second Adam Jesus is the epitome of God’s love and mercy, by being the one sacrifice to redeem everyone who calls on the name of the Lord, he is the final sacrifice and whole burnt offering for all sin and its causes. Through faith in Jesus sacrifice God is able to transform our hearts and minds.

Jeremiah’s covenant fulfilled in Jesus, God says, “I will put my laws into their minds and write them on their hearts and I will be their God and they shall be my people  and they shall not teach everyone his fellow or everyone his brother saying; ‘know the Lord’ for all shall know me from the least of them to the greatest. For I will be merciful towards their iniquities and I will remember their sins no more.” Hebrews 7:  10-12. Jeremiah 31: 33, 34.

Accepting Jesus as our Saviour God reveals Jesus to us as the Holy Spirit acts on our faith and grace.

Grace – undeserved giving from God.

Prayer

Almighty God, I repent of all my sin and I ask for your forgiveness. In faith, I look to you Holy Spirit to reveal Jesus to me. I give thanks for answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name. Amen

God’s mercy and grace working together in practice

Matthew recorded that Jesus (ben adam – son of man) paid his taxes. The temple tax collectors came to Peter and asked him, “Does your teacher pay the tax?” Peter replied, “Yes.” When he arrived home, Jesus knowing all things spoke to Peter about it. He made the point that as their king he wouldn’t pay tribute nor his disciples. However, Jesus didn’t want to cause offence, Jesus son of man, didn’t want to quarrel over tax, the collectors were doing their job.  Jesus then asked Peter to use his skill as a fisherman to, “Go to the sea and cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel; take it and give it to them for me and for yourself.” Matthew 17: 24-27.

So, it is today, God will call people to ministry with their job skills or their background that will witness their faith in Jesus and his grace.

St James Pottery. I was waiting for Centenary Transfers to arrive by registered post. I was getting anxious as I only had a week to produce the Bye Centenary mug for St Thomas Musberry. I rang the Parcel Post Office in Blackburn and the man took my details. He went to the loading bay where a wagon had just arrived. He spoke to those offloading the parcels giving them the details; as he was speaking my parcel was given to him from the man offloading from the wagon. He rang me immediately he was so surprised and excited. My response, I praised the Lord and I thanked him, and I went and picked up the parcel.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord for Matthew the tax collector and his place in Jesus’ team. Matthew must have brought many people to follow Jesus. May we not discount our jobs or trade as not worthy to be used by God in his church. Bless all who bring blessings to others in the church through their job or skill. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The early Church Christians

In the Acts of the Apostles we read of Tabatha a woman held in honour by Christians for her skill as a seamstress and her acts of kindness, “She was full of good works and acts of charity.” Tabatha fell sick and died. Peter was in a nearby town of Joppa and he was asked to go to Tabatha’s house where she lay dead. Peter reverently asked people to leave the room while he prayed for her, turning to the body he said, “Tabatha rise,” she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. Peter gave her his hand and lifted her up. Everyone rejoiced when they saw alive.

God’s mercy in response to her love for others, her Christian family and her neighbour, she was blessed over and above all that she could ask or think. A great miracle when peter prayed for her and she was brought back to life and the Lord was glorified in her Christian witness. Acts 9: 36-41.

Luke the writer of Acts singled out Tabatha for her faithful generosity and kindness and the mercy of God upon her from God in raising her from the dead.

Gentile Cornelius the Centurion was a God-fearing man who prayed to God and gave alms to help the poor. He put into practice what his Jewish friends had shown him in their walk with God. An angel appeared to him and told him to send men to Joppa to the house of Simon the tanner where Peter was staying and bring him to his house at Caesarea. God’s mercy and grace in bringing Cornelius and his household into the kingdom of God. Acts 10

Under grace Peter with the keys of the kingdom opened the door to the Gentiles through Gentile Cornelius.

Prayer

Jesus our Saviour God, thank you, for your life on earth, where you experienced everyday life issues and in doing so, we experience the nearness of God in all our doings. Your presence within us lifting us above our circumstances giving us wisdom, peace and comfort. May we learn more and more to trust in your life experiences on earth.   In Jesus’ name Amen.

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A Series on the Theme ‘Jesus, the Son of Man’.

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We can identify with Jesus, the Son of Man’ he had brothers and sisters and grew up in a normal Jewish family of  his day. Jesus lived by faith that His Father in heaven heard his prayers and responded to them.

Faith isn’t blind, we have this amazing, thrilling and exciting book ‘the Bible’ In it we can discover our creator God. It’s a journey of discovery looking for truths that we can experience for ourselves like knowing God in a personal way through belief in Jesus. It’s a fact that Jesus existed and was crucified by the Romans and through eye-witness accounts God raised him from the dead. God’s love is real and his love is revealed in Jesus. God’s Spirit brings the Bible’s words to life and searches our hearts to brings us to the foot of the cross our meeting place with God.

Prayer

Dear Lord, open my understanding, the eyes of my heart to know you Jesus, Amen

 ‘Son of man’ using the RSV Bible translation.

 “Bar-adam – Aramaic     Ben-adam   Hebrew     ho huios tou anthropou – Greek

The Hebrew Scriptures

The term son of man ‘ben adam’ is used appears 107 times in the Hebrew Scriptures. This is the most common Hebrew construction for the singular, appearing 93 times in the Book of Ezekiel alone and 14 times elsewhere. In 32 cases, the phrase appears in intermediate plural form “sons of men”                                                                                                

The New Testament Scriptures

The Son of man appears 81 times in the Koine Greek of the four Gospels: 30 times in Matthew, 14 times in Mark, 25 times in Luke and 12 times in John.

Jesus born of a woman

Through Mary his mother God at Jesus conception gave Jesus his flesh and blood. Jesus developed into manhood and probably joined his earthly father Joseph in his work as a carpenter, but Jesus knew his Father was God who gave him life. Luke 2: 49.

The writer of Hebrews quoted Jesus words, “ Consequently, when Jesus came into the world he said, “Sacrifices and burnt offerings thou hast no desire, but a body thou hast prepared for me.” Hebrews 10: 5. Psalm 40: 6-8

God’s plan of salvation through Jesus the second Adam.  

The writer of Hebrews wrote, “For it was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. It has been testified somewhere, “What is man that thou art mindful of him or the son of man, (ben-adam) that thou carest for him? Thou didst make him a little lower than the angels, thou crowned him with glory and honour, putting everything in subjection under his feet. . . . .But we see Jesus, who for a little while was made lower than the angels, crowned with glory and honour because of suffering and death, so that by the grace of God, he would taste death for every one.” Hebrews 2: 5-9.

Angels were not created in the image of God, the first man Adam was, “When God created man, he made him in the likeness of God. Male and female he created them, and blessed them and named them Man when they were created. When Adam lived one hundred and thirty years he became father of a son in his own likeness, after his image and named him Seth.” Adam’s son in his own likeness, referring to his nature as a result of his separation from God. Genesis 5: 1-3. Luke 3: 38.

The fallen nature of Adam became hereditary passed down the generations in the blood. Life is in the blood and we understand through the Hebrew scriptures that without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin.  Hebrews 9: 22.

Therefore, for God to redeem us, Jesus was born as one of us the second Adam.

“Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same nature that through death he might destroy him who has the power of death, that is, the devil and deliver those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong bondage.” Hebrews 2: 14, 15. Colossians 2: 13, 14.

“Jesus entered the holy place, taking not the blood of goats and bulls and calves but his own blood, thus securing eternal redemption. . . . .  how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal spirit offered himself without blemish to God.” Hebrews 9: 12, 14

Jesus’ blood was shed for forgiveness of sin and its causes through his death on the cross.

Jesus said in conversation with Nicodemus, “?No one has ascended into heaven, but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, and whoever believes in him may have eternal life.” John 3: 13, 14.

The incident that Jesus referred to took place during the exodus from Egypt in the wilderness. The Israelites complained to Moses about having no food or water and they loathed the quail and the Manna. The Lord sent snakes among them and some of them were bitten and died. Moses was instructed by God to place a bronze replica of a snake on a pole and when some one was bitten to go and look up at the bronze snake and they would be healed.  Numbers 21: 4- 9.

The snake reminds us of how the devil tempted Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and as a result they disobeyed God’s command not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil and their eyes and heart were opened to the influences of the devil.

Jesus being lifted up on the cross replicates the Numbers account:

Mankind has a knowledge of God, but to have fellowship with God we need to look up to Jesus on the cross where he took upon himself the sin of Adam and Eve and he has redeemed mankind from the consequence of sin that results in eternal death. So it’s through repentance he releases us from the devil’s influence and power over us, and in Jesus’ resurrection from the dead, we are raised up from sin and death to become a new creation in Jesus our Lord and Saviour.

We are born of the flesh in Adam, and through faith we are born again in Jesus the second Adam while still in the body of the flesh, receiving the life-giving eternal Spirit. John 3: 5.

Paul wrote, “Thus it is written, “The first man Adam became a living being”, the last Adam became a life-giving spirit.” 1 Corinthians 15: 45.

Prayer,

Lord Jesus, how blessed I am to know God as my Father, to feel part of this amazing creation. To know Your love touches everything You have made, Your love sustaining life, even when it’s broken, Your fellowship with Adam, You sought to restore it to its former glory. Jesus you have healed my broken-heart on the cross and breathed your forgiveness over me by the power of the Spirit of love, the Holy Spirit. In Jesus’ name, Amen

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Christians Together Haslingden – Faith and Love working Together.

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Faith and Love working together as one church in Rammy.

Gardens in front of St Paul's Church
Gardens in front of St Paul’s Church

On the 27th April the Campaign Celebration Service was held at the Community Church (Pentecostal) Pastor Steve, Rev Claire and Rev Paul gave thanks for the all those who took part: those who put the gift items together every week, those who produced the written material, posters, fliers etc and the churches who provided venues for the events especially St Paul’s where the street team where based. We heard testimonies of people’s response on the street, six people including myself gave testimonies: I mentioned the ladies who I had a conversations with during the Chocolate Festival Weekend{ (without going into detail) one lady in particular I prayed with her for healing, she had been healed. Also the two ladies who came up to me and asked if Jesus was God? My response, “Yes, Jesus is the word of God clothed in the flesh.” I asked her why she had asked me this, she said that she had watched the film, ‘the Shack’ I had watched the film two weeks before so I could converse with her about it.

I didn’t attend all the events, but the event I most enjoyed was the “The Sound Portrait,” were a person sat in the chair surrounded by three violins, a cello, flute and keyboard. Lead by the Holy Spirit they played and sang moving around the person. It was so moving the harmony  was heavenly, afterwards the leader of the orchestra spoke to the person describing their portrait in words. Every person received the ‘Sound Portrait’ on a CD. One of the blessings from this campaign is were Christians grow through experiencing the movement of the Holy Spirit.

The hope is now that in due course we will see the difference it’s made to the churches.

Tim Dearborn – Alpha website, ‘The Church of God does not have a mission in the world’ . . . it is more accurate to say that ‘The God of mission has a church in the world’.

The Saturday morning outreach continues, under the banner of Churches Together,  and last weekend the town held a World War 2 event.

Churches Together Flag
Churches Together Flag

Over the year Ramsbottom holds a number of organised events to entertain the steam train visitors who pay a visit the town stopping off at Ramsbottom Station on their journey to the end of the line at Rawtenstall. (East Lancs Railway).

Many people dressed in uniforms and the fashion of the era. In the background we heard Vera Lynn songs: ‘The White Cliffs of Dover’ ‘Keep the Home Fires Burning’ etc The steam trains brought hundreds of visitors to the event, old cars were on display and the army land rovers all playing their part. A mock battle was acted out around the station in the afternoon.

We had a stand outside St Paul’s Church on the right-hand side of the entrance.  The Churches Together flag and on the table a display board, and several things to give out to people.

In preparation for the event we bore in mind the conversation that might come from the articles and pictures on the display board:

WW2 news item ‘ King George V1 calls for the nation to pray’. Visitors from abroad hear the story of answered prayer:” The German army had driven back the British army to the Dunkirk beaches, the soldiers were stranded there. So the evacuation was crucial the prayers were answered:300,000 soldiers were taken off the Dunkirk beaches by a flotilla of small boats and Royal Navy frigates.WW2 Weekend

Also, on the display board testimonies of German and British soldiers of the WW1 battle at Mons soldiers seeing the multitude of angels.

One of our team witnessed the true story passed down from her relative, he was a stretcher bearer at Mons,and he saw the angels. One angel in particular he described as being 24 feet tall. She said, ‘It’s thought the angels were there to carry the dead to heaven.” Jesus in his parable about ‘the Rich man and Lazarus’ said that the poor man Lazarus died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. Luke 16: 22. This word spoke to someone present and was comforted by the thought of angels carrying Christians on both sides to heaven.

“Whose side was God on?

I had prepared for one question that might have been asked:  “There were Christians on both sides, so“Whose side was God on?

The answer I believe is that God doesn’t take sides, he upholds the truth and right from wrong in His eyes.

The proof is in the Bible: after the death of Joshua, Israel turned to the Canaanites gods and disregarded the God of Israel. This resulted in God leaving them to their own devices. We read in Judges that they were beaten in battle their assets were seized and they became their victor’s slaves. God didn’t bless their apostasy, because the truth wasn’t in their hearts. The last judge Samuel was a Godly man who upheld the Jewish Law, but his sons didn’t. Judges 2:11-23. 1 Samuel 8: 1-5.

In the New Testament we read that Jesus was gathering the lost sheep of the house of Israel, so when a Gentile lady came to Jesus and asked for her daughter to be healed, The conversation that followed Jesus said, “Let the children first be fed, for it is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” But she answered him, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” Jesus said, “For this saying you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” Matthew 10: 6. Mark 7: 24-30.

In our reading Jesus was doing right by God’s will when he acknowledged that he came to gather the lost Jewish people into the fold. Matthew 10: 6.

The element of truth; the Gentiles would be brought into the kingdom was acknowledged by Jesus by blessing her with the healing of her daughter.

Going out in two’s

Two of the team stayed by the stand and the rest of us went out in pairs to witness on the street.

We witnessed to several people but one man that stood out:

We had a long conversation with him, he said “There’s nothing after death, your dead and that’s it.”

He also told us that he had recently had a heart attack. The look in his eyes I knew he was searching, he listened intently to every word, especially about God’s love, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.”

This verse led to talking about God’s love where Jesus became the final offering for sin and it’s causes. The person brought their offering to the temple saying a prayer transferring their sin to it, it was slain and its blood sprinkled onto the altar for forgiveness of sin and this was repeated  when they had sinned for forgiveness. The cross means- Jesus is our sacrifice for our sin, he takes our sin and died as a result, God raised Jesus from the dead into eternal life. So by God’s love Jesus takes our sin upon himself on the cross and we receive a free pardon for all that stood against us, and in God’s love for us, we receive eternal life in the Spirit of God’s love. After saying this, he said that his wife was a Jewess, so I thought that these words he perhaps would relate to Leviticus 1 where it’s recorded about this procedure of bringing the sacrifice for forgiveness of sin.

I’ve prayed for the church to have a great love for the lost, and the Lord has answered my prayer.

During our prayer time a young man began to sing the Lord’s My Shepherd we all joined in, it was so moving and blessed.

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The Church is Based in Heaven

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The Church is based in heaven  where we Christians are seated with Christ. “Through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 3: 10.

Over recent years Liverpool invited the puppets founded by the Royal de Luxe French Mechanical Marionette Theatre Company. Each puppet had people working the parts, they worked together in make the movements look natural, it was very well done and attracted thousands of people on the street, watched on TV and the internet.

Puppets Liverpool

Royal de Luxe operate from France that’s where their head office is based.

Our Christian base is in heaven, we are a heavenly people, we are seated with Christ in heavenly places. We bring our prayer requests to the throne of grace in heaven. Our names are written in heaven. Our gifts come from heaven, when Jesus ascended, he gave gifts to his believers and we are ambassadors of God’s kingdom. Ephesians 2: 6. 4: 10. 6: 20. Hebrews 4: 16. Luke 10: 20. 2 Corinthians 5: 20.

Royal de Luxe are invited to perform in cities around the globe, Liverpool was one of those locations.

Where Christians gather in towns or cities and form the body of Christ, the wisdom of God is working within and through us, so that the body functions in unity.

We are mindful of the ways of God through seeking God’s will in bringing the heavenly words and works of Christ to the places where we live and where we worship.

Royal de Luxe employ many people to operate their puppets. In the picture we can see men seated above and behind the head of the puppet on a scaffold, pulling the cords attached to the various bodily  parts.Puppet L

As members of the church, Christ’s body, we are all complete in Christ with every gift to fulfil every movement of the body with its’ gesture, and expression coming from the mind, heart and will of God.

To function as part of the body we are blessed with one or more prominent gifts: teaching the Bible, proclaiming and expounding the word, evangelists, pastors, prophets, heal, administration, musicians, helps, and numerous other gifts, all working together in the love of God. Ephesians 4: 11. 1 Corinthians 12: 4-31. RSV Bible

Jesus said to the churches recorded in Revelation “….And all the churches know that I am he who searches mind and heart.” Rev 2: 23 RSV Bible

 Paul wrote, “And he who searches the hearts of men, knows what the mind of the Spirit is, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8: 27. RSV Bible

Seeking God’s will to make Christ known.

“We have boldness and confidence of access to Jesus through our faith in him. Ephesians 3: 12. RSV Bible

Jesus intercedes before God the Father as we pray for the Lord our God’s fire to fall to bring people to faith in Christ.

“Jesus is able to save those who draw near to God, through him, since he lives to make intercession for them.” Romans 7: 23. RSV Bible

During the 10 weeks witnessing my faith, to strangers on the streets of Ramsbottom, asking for permission to intrude on people’s personal space was important, “Can you spare a few minutes to tell you about what the Church in Rammy are doing? We seek to do what pleases the Lord, so how we conduct ourselves is important as we are ambassadors of the Kingdom, God making his appeal through us. The Holy Spirit’s ministry had already prepared these encounters, and at the appointed time people respond to the gospel out of free choice.

Through faith we depend on the promise that rests on grace.

The promise, “Now to him by the power at work within us is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think.” Taking hold of these words and applying them in faith in conversation with a person’s need. When someone asks for prayer before I pray, I like to share an event or situation that relates to them from the Bible. The reason why is because I believe the Holy Spirit acts on the living Word Jesus and the prayer then is powerfully answered by God. Ephesians 3: 20

One of the people I prayed for on the street I found out after meeting her again that she had been healed. Thank you, Lord.

 “The Spirit helps us in our weaknesses, for we do not know how to  pray as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words.”  Romans 8: 26 Isaiah 38: 14. 59: 11. RSV Bible

Prayers that are spoken in tongues, a language given by the Holy Spirit allows the Holy Spirit to converse with our Lord and Saviour God on our behalf. These prayers release our compassion for people who perhaps we are in fellowship with or in one to one ministry.

In a meeting where a word is given in tongues it is accompanied with an interpretation and that can help Christians who need reassurance of the Lord’s presence among his followers. Both gifts working together blesses everyone present.

The wider audience watching, observing the movements of the church are the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.

After God created 24 hours of alternating darkness and light, one of the angels asked him, “What are you going to do now?” God said, “I think I’m going to call it a day.”

Angels rejoiced at Jesus’ birth.

At Jesus’ birth the angels were heard by the shepherds praising God.

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men with whom he is well pleased.” Luke 2: 13. RSV Bible

Peter was referring to salvation in Jesus, when he stated that the angels desired to look into these things. 1 Peter 1: 12 RSV Bible

The angels were not privy to God’s plan of salvation in Christ. Peter acknowledged that the futile ways (original sin) inherited from their fathers could only be redeemed by the precious blood of Christ, who was destined before the foundation of the world to fulfil God’s plan of salvation.

“But with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot.  He was destined before the foundation of the world but was made manifest at the end of the times for your sake. Through him you have confidence in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are kept in God.” 1 Peter 1:18-21 RSV Bible.

Paul gave the same message as Peter.

Paul wrote, “To make all men see what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God, who created all things, that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places.” Ephesians 3: 9, 10. RSV Bible

Paul testified that he had been given the ministry to the Gentiles. God had revealed to him what had been hidden, even from God’s and Satan’s angels God’s plan of salvation in Christ for all humanity.

Paul understood the Gentiles had no covenants or promises with God and were under the influence of the spirit of Satan the prince of the power of the air.

 “And you he made alive, when you were dead through the trespasses and sins in which you once walked following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience.” Ephesians 2: 1,2. RSV Bible

God’s wisdom

When the rebellion took place among the angels in heaven, Satan who led the rebellion didn’t know about God’s plan of salvation in Christ, it was hidden in God before the foundation of the world. 1 Peter 1: 20. Ephesians 1: 4. Isaiah 14: 12. Ezekiel 28: 12-19. RSV Bible.

Jesus applied his heavenly victory over Satan.

When the 70 returned from their mission taking out the good news of the coming kingdom of God, on their return they shared with Jesus their success over Satan. “The seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!” Jesus said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightening from heaven.”

When Satan was cast out of heaven, his rebellion had been crushed, but not totally wiped out. These verses in Luke also reveal to us Jesus’ authority behind the victory in heaven.

“Behold, I have given you authority to tread upon serpents and scorpions, and over all power of the enemy; and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10: 17-20.

In his name they used his authority to get the victory over their spiritual enemy Satan. Ephesians 6: 12 RSV Bible

Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and gave thanks to His Father Lord of heaven and the earth.

The legality of the cross.

3 “And you, who were dead in trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, 14 having cancelled the bond which stood against us with its legal demands; this he set aside, nailing it to the cross. 15 He disarmed the principalities and powers and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in him.” Colossians 2: 13-15. RSV Bible

The bond – Satan is responsible for sin and evil, he led Adam and Eve to sin in the garden of Eden. Afterwards God cast them out of the garden as they were now under bondage to Satan. Genesis 2: 17. 3: 5. Ephesians 6: 16. Hebrews 2: 14, 15. RSV Bible

The disarming of principalities and powers

When an army is defeated the weapons of warfare are taken from the soldiers, they are disarmed, but not totally destroyed. Regarding Satan and his army, they have been disarmed, but not wiped out, this has yet to take place. God in his justice when all legal aspects have been covered, Satan and his army will be totally wiped out. Revelation 20: 10. RSV Bible

The Church’s Victory led from God’s Base in Heaven

 “And he said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation. 16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned.” 

It’s as we come to the cross to meet with God our redeemer and be set free from Satan’s bond.

Our baptism, (with or without water)  in Christ frees us from the bond, Paul writes it has been ‘nailed to the cross’. Jesus baptism takes place when we respond through faith and repentance, we die to our sin with him on the cross and through God’s forgiveness we are raised up with Jesus in his resurrection.

17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Mark 16: 15-18. RSV Bible

I took my mum to be prayed for at Baptist Minister Harold Oldham’s home and she was healed of Parkinson disease.

I was with her when the doctor diagnosed her and at the hospital when they confirmed that she had Parkinson disease.

After she was healed the doctor changed his diagnosis to a nervous disorder.

What the Lord is saying through this blog?

Christians are called to focus on Jesus Christ and particularly on our spiritual home our base in heaven where Jesus won his great victory. Jesus empowers us through his kingdom presence within us.  The church is the body of Christ with its many members, all are Christ centred and empowered with the Holy Spirit to bring glory to God our Father.

From heaven where we are seated with Jesus, to seek those things that are above in order to apply our gifts whenever we have the opportunity to glorify our heavenly Father, just as Jesus did  on the earth.

We are equipped and empowered to make our stand against Satan’s principalities and powers, and we are called to make disciples here on earth.

The Lord strengthens us in our weaknesses.

Lord Jesus, help me to walk with you today, give me today something of your wisdom that was in your words; something of the love that was in your heart; something of the help that was on your hands. Give me today something of your patience with people, something of your ability to bear slights and insults and injuries without bitterness and without resentment; something of your ability to forgive. Help me to live in such a way today that others may know that I begin the day with you, so that, however dimly, others may see you in me. This I ask for your love’s sake. Amen

William Barclay ‘More Prayers for the Plain Man’.

 

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The Messiah’s Secret Revealed – The Roots of Christianity

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The roots of Christianity are in Jesus Christ.

Jesus’ prayer John 17:5 reveals to us that he was glorified that he had with his Father before the world was made, and in verse 24 he prayed for the disciples to behold his glory in his Father’s love for him before the foundation of the world. The roots of Christianity are in Jesus  Christ. Paul wrote that Christians are rooted and grounded in Christ’s love. Ephesians 3: 17

Through Paul’s knowledge of the Hebrew scriptures the Holy Spirit revealed to him how God before the foundation of the world had in his great mercy Gentiles in mind to be saved through faith in Jesus.

“In order to make known the riches of his glory for the vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory, 24 even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles? 25 As indeed he says:  “Those who were not my people
I will call ‘my people,’ and her who was not beloved
I will call ‘my beloved.’”
26 “And in the very place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people,’ they will be called ‘sons of the living God.’” Romans 9: 23, 24. Hosea 1: 10. 2: 23 RSV Bible

When Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus, he encouraged the Gentile Christians that God had planned their inclusion into the Kingdom of God through faith in Jesus before the foundation of the world.

 ”Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.” Ephesians 1: 4. RSV Bible

God had prepared to bless us in our ministries, the vessels of mercy, ”For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2: 10 RSV Bible

Paul tells us that Gentiles cannot attain eternal life by doing good deeds to please God, it’s by faith, which depends on the promises and rests on grace.

Covenants sealed with blood

 “11 Therefore, remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh called the “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is made in the flesh by human hands)”  Ephesians 2: 11 RSV Bible

Abraham’s Covenant sealed with circumcision, “This is my covenant which you shall keep, between me and you and your descendants; every male among you shall be circumcised.” Genesis 17: 10. RSV Bible

Jesus was circumcised in order to fulfil the law.

Moses’ Covenant was ratified, with blood. “Moses took the blood and threw it upon the people, and said, “Behold the blood of the covenant which the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.” Exodus 24: 8. RSV Bible

Jesus’ Covenant, “Drink this all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Matthew 26: 26-28. RSV Bible

Circumcision of the heart sealed by the blood and the Holy Spirit.

In our body, life is in the blood, and the blood’s function reflects our salvation – the red blood cell collects oxygen from the lungs and carries it to a tissue and offloads it giving the tissue energy and simultaneously takes away from the tissue the waste, the carbon dioxide is expelled through the lungs. The red cell is like Jesus ministering to a person his redeeming blood removing the waste, the sin in our lives, while at the same time the blood giving us new life.

Repentance from the heart leads to forgiveness and the indwelling presence of the Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit. Romans 2: 29. 9: Colossians 1: 29.Acts 2: 37. 7:51.

We draw on our inheritance from the sap rising from the roots of Christ and we are blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places. Ephesians 1: 3

“12 remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.” Ephesians 2: 12. RSV Bible

Before Jesus, the relationship between Jew and Gentile, the Gentiles were excluded from citizenship in Israel.

The Hebrew people came into existence from the foundation of the world and became God’s chosen people they had covenants, agreements with God. God spoke through the prophets: prophesies and promises. Luke11: 50. Matthew 13: 35. 25: 34 RSV Bible

Did God intend Gentile Christians to become Proselytes?

Unger’s Bible Dictionary

New Testament used the word ‘Proselyte, there were two classes – gentile strangers, who while living among the Jews, bound themselves to seven precepts that forbade: idolatry, blasphemy, bloodshed, uncleanness, theft,  eating flesh without blood, while being obedient, professing their adherence to all doctrines and precepts of the Mosaic law.

Secondly the Rabbis gave three essentials for admission of males as proselytes to Judaism-circumcision, baptism and sacrifice. To a woman – baptism and sacrifice.”

The early church  

 The Pharisees wanted every male Gentile to be circumcised and to uphold Mosaic law However, the Gentiles were given religious enactments to follow that excluded  circumcision.    The Jerusalem Meeting of the church, apostles, and elders was to consider the religious decrees for the Gentiles: to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. Acts 15: 29.                                                         

Paul’s message to the Gentiles removed all barriers that had existed before between Jew and Gentile.

 “13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near in the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, 15 by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end.” Ephesians 2: 13-16. RSV Bible

The cross the meeting place between God and all humanity, we have access into the kingdom through faith in Jesus’ blood.

Paul writes: “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our sins, according to the riches of his grace.” Ephesians 1: 7  RSV Bible. Through having faith in Jesus in what he did for us on the cross, taking our sin upon himself and dying as a result, and through his divinity being found not guilty in his own life, his blood shed for the sins of the whole world and universe. God raised him from the dead. Through Jesus accomplishing this he has united us with heaven while we live on the earth.

So, through faith in Jesus I have died with him to sin and with him raised up in God’s eternal Spirit to newness of life.

17 And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18 for through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God. Ephesians 2: 17-19. RSV Bible

Paul saw that the Gentiles accepting Jesus as their Saviour made Israel jealous. As a result the Jews argued with Paul and contradicted what he was saying. Acts 13: 44-47

As the church grew, a division began to emerge between Jewish Christians and Gentile Christians.

“A couple drove several miles down a country lane, not saying a word. An earlier discussion had led to an argument and neither wanted to concede their position. As they passed a farmyard of mules and pigs, the husband sarcastically asked, “Relatives of yours?” “Yep” the wife replied, “In-laws.” “A Barrel of Fun” J John & Mark Stibbe

The Gentile Christians acknowledge their union with the Christian Jews, when they sent provisions of food during a famine to the Christians at Jerusalem.

“For Macedonia and Achaia have been pleased to make some contribution for the poor among the saints at Jerusalem; they were pleased to do it, and indeed they are in debt to them, for if the Gentiles have come to share in their spiritual blessings, they ought also to be of service to them in material blessings.” Romans 15: 26, 27. RSV Bible

Eyre & Spottiswoode Study Bible notes 2 Corinthians 8: 1. “This offering was more than a relief mission. It would be for the Jerusalem Christians a demonstration of the oneness of the faith and love which united the Gentile and Jewish Churches into the fellowship of the one body in Christ.”

The Corinthian church were asked to contribute to the relief of the Christians at Jerusalem. Paul spoke of equality between Jewish and Gentile Christians.

Paul’s letter to the Corinthians he wrote, “I do not mean that others should be eased and you not burdened, but that as a matter of equality, your abundance at the present time should supply their want, so their abundance may supply your want so there may be equality.2 Corinthians 8: 13. RSV Bible

Old saying, “Two little dicky birds sitting on a wall one is Peter the other Paul. Fly away Peter, fly away Paul, come back Peter come back Paul.” It speaks of a rift causing them to fly away and coming back in understanding and unity.

The rift within the early church deepened as a result of the Apostle Peter having the ministry to the circumcised and Paul to the uncircumcised. The Christians who insisted in keeping of the Mosaic law and circumcision eventually led to Paul’s confrontation with Peter over this issue, we read about in Paul’s letter to the Galatians. Galatians 2: 1-21.

Paul had to prove his sincerity toward Jesus when he recounted his testimony and the years following his conversion. Peter was a man of great stature among the Christians and to publicly speak to him in the way that Paul did when he accused him of being insincere towards the Gentile believers. “But when I saw that they were not straight forward about the truth of the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all, “If you a Jew, live like a Gentile and not like a Jew, how can you compel the Gentiles to live like the Jews?” Paul continued to say, that we are declared not guilty of our sin before God through the final sacrifice of Jesus to justify the demands of the law of sin and death. Therefore, justification did not come through keeping the law, it has come through faith in Jesus. Peter was trying to please the Gentiles by sitting and eating with them, but when the Christian Jews arrived he withdrew from the Gentiles, Paul was saying you can’t have it both ways.

Peter wrote at the end of his letter that there were some things that Paul wrote in his letters that were hard to understand. 2 Peter 3: 16.

Down the centuries Jesus death on the cross became a stumbling block to the Jewish people.

 “Has God Finished with Israel” by Rob Richards page 126 -128

Rob Richard quotes 1 Thessalonians 2: 14b – 16. “” . . . the Jews, who killed Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to all men in their effort to keep us speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.”

Rob continues (Yet we remind ourselves in the Nicene Creed, ‘For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate,’ a Gentile. ASB)

The process was almost complete. The Messianic believers had started within Judaism but were now being forced to find a distinct identity outside mainstream Judaism. The Bar Kochba Revolt of AD 132 further widened the division between the two communities. Bar Kochba was hailed as the Messiah by Rabbi Akiva, and the Jewish believers had to withdraw their support from his leadership of opposition to Rome because they believed Jesus to be the Messiah and consequently, they were seen as heretics. The opposition of the Jewish establishment to the believers became violent and this sealed the complete separation.”

During this period the leaders of the churches introduced ‘Replacement theology’ meaning that the church has replaced Israel. Chrysostom and Martin Luther were very antagonistic against the Jews and the Jews respond in the same manner.         I personally do not believe in replacement theology.

God is preparing his Church for Jesus’ return.

Singer Helen Shapiro is of Jewish decent born in London in 1946. At the age of six she went to a state school. She told us of how she remembered a child coming up to her in the playground and saying, ‘You killed Jesus.’ She was devastated and never forgot those hurtful words. In the late 1980’s she discovered Jesus as her Saviour and the promised Messiah to the Jewish people.

The Messiah’s Secret Revealed in 1996

Both Peter and Paul understood that the leaders and people had crucified Jesus in ignorance to fulfil the prophesies of his death and resurrection. These prophesies had been hidden from them by God. On the evening of the day of Jesus’ resurrection Jesus had opened the disciples understanding to these prophesies. Luke 24: 44-48. Acts 3: 17- end 13: 27.

At Pentecost the Apostles proclaimed publicly that Jesus was the Messiah for the first time, a national calling to accept Jesus and he would have brought in ‘the times of refreshing’ the restoring of the throne and land of King David. Luke 1: 32, 33.

The Jews were taught from the law that when the Messiah came he would live for ever. This was taught by the Layers, Scribes and confirmed when they stood at the cross, “So also the chief priests mocked him to one another with the scribes, saying, “He saved others; he cannot save himself. 32 Let the Christ, the King of Israel, come down now from the cross, that we may see and believe.” Those who were crucified with him also reviled him.” John 12: 34. Mark 15: 31, 32. RSV Bible  Matthew 16: 21, 22.

The early church where expecting Jesus to return soon after Pentecost. Acts 3: 17-22. Mark 8: 38, 9: 1

Only God the Father knows the time of Jesus’ return

”  20 built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.” Ephesians 2: 20-22.

Our Jewish roots

We are built upon the foundations of the apostles and prophets. The apostles Jewish men, saw the fulfillment of Isaiah’s prophecy, “There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse and a branch shall grow out of his roots.” Jesus the Christ fulfilling this prophecy, from his Hebrew roots he has made it possible for all humanity to become Children of God through faith in Jesus. Peter in his second letter wrote to those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours, in the righteousness of our God and Saviour Jesus Christ.  Peter prophesied  that the earth will be dissolved by fire and with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.  Isaiah 11: 1.  2 Peter 1: 1. 3: 8, 10.

Christians are equal in Christ ‘all in all’

Paul towards the end of his letter to the church at Rome pursues the hope of peace between believers; to bear the failings of the weak.   To edify our neighbour -To live in harmony with our neighbour. That together you may with one voice glorify God the  Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  “7 Welcome one another, therefore, as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. 8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God’s truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written,  “Therefore I will praise thee among the Gentiles, and sing to thy name”; 10 and again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people”; 11 and again, “Praise the Lord, all Gentiles, and let all the peoples praise him”; 12 and further Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse shall come, he who rises to rule the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles hope.”

13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” Romans 15: 1-13. RSV Bible    Psalm 18: 49. 2 Samuel 22: 50. Deut 32: 43. Psalm 117: 1. Isaiah 11: 10.

Flavours of Christianity

 ‘Messianic Christian Fellowships’ that bring into their worship  elements of Judaism like the Hebrew in song, dance and some of the symbols from the temple worship: the Menorah candlestick.  I personally have no problem with that, it must enrich their worship.

Most Evangelical Gentile Christians worship as Paul indicated that when they came together they sang Hymns and songs, pray, read and hear the word expounded, and  always giving thanks in the name of  the Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father etc.  Ephesians 5: 19

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Our Hopes Depend on God’s Promise and Rest on Grace

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St Mary’s Rawtenstall Ladies Fellowship Meeting

Romans 4: 13 – end “Our hopes depend on God’s promise and rest on grace.

Choc Fest

Above Chocolate Festival

The ‘Churches Together’ leaders in Ramsbottom were inspired by Pastor Phil Burns’ Hash tag  #doyouknowHim? Campaign which took place in Skipton last year, to hold it in Ramsbottom.

They also contacted Capernwray Bible College 8 Students came to help as part of their syllabus. they were with us for the first ten days during which they ministered in schools, youth groups and play groups,

27th January the Launch Service with Bishop Mark and Phil Burns commissioning us to “Go and tell all nations” the good news  The emphasis throughout the campaign is that all 14 Churches are ‘the one church’ in Ramsbottom, and each Sunday every church focuses on the same readings from the Bible and the small groups.

Before the start of the campaign which was on the 23rd February for 10 weeks, we’ve had a 24/7 prayer day and a prayer morning plus weekly prayer meeting.

26th January we had a training day for going out on to the streets.

Pastor Phil Burn spoke from his experience, he gave us lots of pointers on the way to evangelise. He said, do not fear evangelism. Each week there’s a theme to engage people with. and for us to enjoy and get excited about evangelism.

Phil said, the art of connecting is with your story. We all have a story of coming to know Jesus.

On Saturday 23rd February we gathered at St Pauls for 9.30am for the briefing and prayer. We took out ‘Bags of Blessings’ .                                                                         A bag with several items in it.

A plaster – to remind you that God wants to heal your hurts.

A love heart – so you know how loved you are.

String – because wants to help you hold it together in tough times

Rubber – to remind you God forgives your mistakes and offers a fresh start

Star – to remind you that God will guide you forward.

Paperclip – so you are always organised

Kiss – so you know that God’s love is here to connect with.

The item given out opens-up, an opportunity to share our faith.

Two kinds of faith – when I go to the supermarket, I put my faith in paying using my credit card, believing the Bank will carry out the transaction.

Faith under God is different

Romans 4: 16   Paul writes receiving Jesus by faith, “That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all Abraham’s descendants.”                                                              

Faith –depends on God’s promise and rests on grace.

In Rammy when we speak out our belief, we’re resting in God’s promise, believing that the Holy Spirit acts upon the word of the promise ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life’ and we rest on God’s grace for people responding by coming to faith in Jesus.

Verse 17. God gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.”

So, for the person receiving the word by faith accepting Jesus is to call into existence’ a new creation in Christ.

Faith –depends on God’s promise and rests on grace.

Week 5 ‘Sound Portrait‘ Epiphany Musicians

A small orchestra: 3 violins, a cello, a flute, and a keyboard. Lead by the Holy Spirit they played and sang moving around the person sat on a chair. It was so moving the harmony  was heavenly, afterwards the leader of the orchestra spoke to the person describing their portrait in words. Every person received the ‘Sound Portrait’ on a CD.  In the evening St Andrew’s hosted Epiphany Musicians Concert. During the concert two people had ‘Sound Portraits. Choc Festival 19

A fortnight ago week 7 it was the Chocolate festival and the theme was God’s love, we gave out a small box containing leaflet, a scripture verse and a chocolate. I witnessed to several people, but two conversations were significant:

I was stood outside the Station in Ramsbottom handing these out, when two ladies came up to me and asked me the question, ’Is Jesus God? I replied, “Jesus is the word of God clothed in the flesh.” He was sent by God from heaven to become one of us, to enable us to enter into heaven . . . .” I asked what had caused her to ask the question, she said, that she had watched the film, ‘The Shack’ and she hadn’t quite understood if Jesus was God or not. The film presents God as a Caribbean woman, Jesus a European man and the Holy Spirit as a Chinese woman.                                                        .

The author William Young chose the worst scenario, ‘A murdered child.”   Very relevant with what’s happening in our cities with the knife crime.

 In the film Mack Philips received an anonymous letter telling him to go to the shack, he was puzzled as to who had sent him this letter. It was at the Shack where his abducted daughter ‘Missy’ was murdered.

God took him to the shack, to the point of his pain. Mack Philips blamed God for allowing this to happen to his daughter.

Unforgiveness is the effect, of a root cause, so forgiveness takes effect, by allowing Jesus to journey with us to the point of the root cause.

There in the Shack he argued with God saying, “Where were you when my daughter needed you?” Even Jesus cried out, “My God, my God why have you forsaken me.”  God replied, “I did feel Jesus’ pain,”

God identified with the man in his suffering, and showed him the nail marks in the wrist, and pointed out that Jesus forgave his perpetrators when on the cross he cried out, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.”

The man understood the cost to God, his tragic loss, where Jesus was delivered up on the cross according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God. Acts 2: 23.  God offered Jesus as a final sacrifice for forgiveness of sin.

That recalled when Abraham who laid his son Isaac on the altar and Abraham words, “The Lord will provide.” Or “The Lord will see to it.” “Jehovah Jireh.” Genesis 22: 14.

In the film, God asked the man to forgive the person who murdered his daughter and it was hard for him to come to that place of forgiveness, God’s love is in forgiveness.

Which links in with another lady on the street who couldn’t forgive the sin against her.

I shared with her about the two disciples on the road to Emmaus and the crucifixion.

It seemed appropriate this afternoon to share the disciples and Sue’s journey: The disciples faith in him was devastated and scared they knew that Jesus had been condemned to be crucified, the crowd had mocked Jesus and shouted ‘crucify him, crucify him’ Jesus understood everything that was happening to him and he forgive them. “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And shortly afterwards he said, “Father, into your hands I commit my Spirit.” He handed his whole life to God, and trusted that he would be raised up from the dead.

On the road to Emmaus Jesus opened the scriptures to them, so they knew that God had foretold that Jesus would die at Jerusalem. Their healing came as he explained why the events in Jerusalem had to take place through the prophesies and their hearts burned within them, shortly afterwards they recognised who the stranger was when he broke bread with them.

The lady straight away poured out her painful story, as a result we could identify how we suffer with someone we love, and it hurts.

Jesus knows by his own experience how we are affected, he was the injured party and in his love for those who sinned against him he was willing to forgive them, and by doing so he made it possible for sin to be forgiven. But it’s up to us, if we can’t forgive then we are holding on to their sin and it will build a wall of bitterness, that is detrimental to our well-being. We ended the conversation with a prayer.

it’s as we understand that God’s love is in forgiveness and we can find healing through forgiving others as God has forgiven us.

When a Christian forgives it’s by grace, through Jesus dwelling within us, “Let this mind be in you that was in Christ.” Philippians 2: 5.

All the conversations by the #doyouknowHim? teams were said in faith:

 “Faith is having the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Hebrews 11: 1.

I was assured by the Lord that the word, would not return to the Lord empty as God had prepared beforehand these God appointed meetings.

Afterwards, I was asked this question: “Can we forgive the sin of another person, without being involved in their situation?

In the Anglican Church service we call it  the ‘Absolution’. Were the person leading the service says a prayer of receiving the Lord’s forgiveness.

I personally believe that because Jesus’ dwells within us, every Christian has Jesus’ authority to forgive other peoples sin on behalf of our Lord God.

What are your thoughts on this question?

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God is Preparing the Church for Jesus’ Return

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Sometimes by taking a fresh look at past events in church history, God is preparing the Christian and the church for Jesus’ return.

Sozo Ministries International was established in 1983 by Marion Daniel. “Our ministry’s vision is to bring wholeness to the world through Jesus.”

Our Jewish Journey

Marion Daniel writes, “When the Lord revealed to us that the church has not replaced the Jews as God’s chosen people, we began to seriously investigate the Hebraic roots of our Christian faith. We discovered how the church had deliberately severed these roots in the 3rd and 4th centuries’ and we came face to face with the shameful history of Christian anti-Semitism. God has given us a deep conviction to return to the roots of our faith so that we can finally return to His master plan.”

Website: Sozo Ministries International ‘About us.’

From the Jewish point of view: Christian Persecution of the Jews over the Centuries by Gerard S. Sloyan Professor Emeritus of Religion, Temple University.

Professor Sloyan – (summary) When a synagogue was burned down by a mob, Bishop Ambrose used his influence not to have it rebuilt and it’s reported that he said, it was ‘a site of unbelief’ and he wrote that there should not continue in existence a place where Christ was denied………In one of his epistles, (40) “Whom do the Jews have to avenge the synagogue? Christ whom they have killed, whom they have denied? Or will God the Father avenge them, whom they do not acknowledge as Father since they do not acknowledge the Son?” This kind of writing typifies the shape of the Christian argument had taken over the course of two centuries.” (3rd & 4th Centuries A.D.)

Christians, like Bishop Ambrose his attitude may have been different if he had realised that it was God’s intention, that the Jews didn’t know, that it was God’s plan for Jesus to be crucified, in order that he paid the for the sins of the whole world by laying down his life, so that all creation would be redeemed by his blood and through his resurrection receive eternal life. John 3: 16

The Community at Jerusalem

We read in the Acts the followers of Jesus met as a community at Jerusalem and thrived, until a disagreement arose between the Jewish sect, the synagogue of the Freedmen and Stephen. They secretly instigated men to make false accusations against him. He was accused of speaking against the holy place and the law; “For we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place and will change the customs which Moses delivered to us.” Acts 6: 8 – 14.

After this incident, Christians were arrested and brought before the courts. Paul was instrumental in this.

Pharisee Paul persecuted Christians.

Paul’s attitude towards Christians changed when he experienced seeing Jesus in a vision on the Damascus road, afterwards he knew Jesus in a personal way.

Paul took his gospel message first to the Jews on his missionary journeys. He wanted them to know and accept that Jesus was the promised Messiah.  In his knowledge of the Hebrew scriptures he proved that the Christ had to suffer and was resurrected from the dead. Acts 17: 3.

On his ministry tours his  first call was a visit to the synagogue, visitors were given the opportunity to share their news.

Paul addressed the people in the synagogue at Antioch of Pisida he informed them that those who lived in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not recognise him, nor  understand the utterances of the prophets . . . fulfilled these by condemning Jesus. Paul continued to expound the prophesies of King David concerning the resurrection. Acts 13: 27-33.

Paul’s message brought Gentiles into the covenant promise of the Messiah through “Jesus being the end of the law, that everyone who has faith may be justified.” Romans 10: 8-13. Romans 11: 25.

This teaching from Paul became an open wound to the Jews of the first century and still is today. The Jewish Christians wanted the converted Gentiles to observe circumcision and the law given to Moses.

Christian Persecution of the Jews over the Centuries by Gerard S. Sloyan

Professor Sloyan writes, “Whatever resistance Jesus may have met as a teacher in his life time is now couched in terms of rancour over who is a Jew, and what are the limits of commitment to the faith of Israel. Uncircumcised gentiles and even the despised Samaritans are now thought capable of professing Israel’s faith.”

Paul in his discussions with the Christian Jews in his day, pointed to Abraham’s righteousness that was through faith, circumcision of the flesh was a seal. Righteousness through faith in Christ it is circumcision of the heart in the Spirit. Romans 4:9-15.

Paul wrote in his letter to the church at Rome that the Jews had hardened their hearts by rejecting his message.

 “I want you to understand this mystery, brethren: a hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of Gentiles are brought in.” Romans 11: 25.

Paul’s teaching in his letter to the Romans indicates he believed that God had not rejected Israel, but they had been ‘cut off’ from the olive tree, as a result of their unbelief and the mainly Gentile church has been grafted into the olive tree through belief in Jesus. The olive tree is a symbol of peace and light.  Romans 11: 1, 17-24.

Dake’s Annoted Reference Bible page 169 Notes Romans 11: 25-29

“The fall of the Jews was not in itself the reason for the salvation of the Gentiles. They were to be saved whether they accepted or rejected the gospel. Genesis 12: 1-3. Romans 4 Galatians 6: 8-10. The unbelief of Israel could never give faith to Gentiles. The rejection of the Christ could only accelerate the salvation of the Gentiles. Acts 13: 46-48. 28: 28. Dake also states: The fullness of the Gentiles will end at the second advent of Christ and the national conversion of Israel. Romans 11: 25-29. Isaiah 66: 7,8. Zechariah 12: 10-13. 14: 1-21.

“I want you to understand this mystery, brethren; a hardening has come upon part of Israel, until the full number of Gentiles come in, and so all Israel will be saved; as it is written, “The Deliverer will come from Zion, he will banish ungodliness from Jacob”; “and this will be my covenant with them when I take away their sins.” Romans 11: 26, 27. Isaiah 59: 20, 21.

March 26th  I asked myself the question, this hardening of the heart that Paul spoke of, did it make the leaders of Israel unlikely to receive Jesus as their Messiah at and after Pentecost?

During the 40 days before Jesus ascension, he spoke to his disciples about the kingdom of God, Peter expected Jesus to return soon after Pentecost. Peter believed Jesus, when during his ministry he indicated that there were those standing listening to him who would not die before they saw him return with the angel and the kingdom of God come with power. Mark 8: 38. 9:1.

After the healing of the paralysed man at Gate Beautiful Peter proclaimed to the crowd that Israel’s rulers and people had acted in ignorance when they crucified Jesus and if they repented their sins would be blotted out and the times of refreshing, the restoring of the throne and land of King David would come with the appointed Messiah, Jesus whom heaven must receive until the time established all that God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old.  Acts 3: 1-21

Peter and John were arrested and brought before the Sanhedrin and the high priest’s family which included Caiaphas and they were asked, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” Peter filled with the Holy Spirit said, “”Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a cripple, by what means this man has been healed, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him this man is standing before you well.” Acts 4: 1-22. The Sanhedrin’s decision: they were warned against speaking or teaching in Jesus’ name.

Is this when Israel’s branch was broken off the olive tree?

The Sanhedrin’s hearts must have been ‘hardened’ we know the Sadducee’s didn’t believe in the resurrection and the Holy Spirit speaking the word through Peter,    Caiaphas didn’t respond.

Another possibility they were ‘cut off when the community at Jerusalem were scattered, through the stoning of Stephen, although the Apostles remained at Jerusalem.

Jesus’ prophecy the events that proceed his return.

Paul perhaps was mindful of Jesus’ words, “Jerusalem will be trodden down until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.” Luke 21:24.

Many Christians believe that this prophecy was fulfilled in 1967 after the 6 Day War when after Israel took over Jordan’s eastern half of the city. Israel controlling Jerusalem after a gap of 2,000 years.

However, many more Christians believe that this prophecy was fulfilled only in part in 1967. The times of the Gentiles continues until Jesus returns.

According to Zechariah Israel’s present day defence of Jerusalem is described by him as a great stone like the heavy stone that grinds the corn

Zechariah 12: 2, 3.   “On that day I will make Jerusalem a heavy stone for all the people; all who lift it shall grievously hurt themselves.” Meaning that Israel is using a strong hand against their enemies, as we have seen over the last few years in the contention between Israel and the  Palestinians.

Since the 1970’s there have been numerous attempts to bring a peaceful settlement between Arab, Jew and Palestinian. On Wikipedia which is an on-line encyclopaedia

The website ’Israeli – Palestinian peace process’  summarises the peace initiatives and treaties up to the present day: like the UN resolution 242 November 22nd 1967, The Oslo Accords, Camp David year 2000 and the ‘Road Map’ for peace.

In 2000 Israel started to build the wall dividing Israel from Palestine.

After 52 years of Israeli’s living alongside the Palestinians, in order to solve a huge problem of national security: the constant suicide bombings and threats of invasion. Israel’s leaders decided to build a wall 705 km, it runs through the centre of Israel and around Jerusalem.

The wall will fall, Gog will invade when Israel is at peace and God will allow Gog and his allies to break down the wall.

Ezekiel’s prophecy “ . . . shall quake at my presence, and the mountains shall be thrown down, and the cliffs will fall, and every wall shall tumble to the ground.” Ezekiel 38: 14, 15, 20.

It’s followed by Jerusalem being surrounded by the armies of nations and Israelis will flee to the mountains and only a remnant will remain.

Jesus calls the church to watch, be ready for when this sign is being fulfilled.

“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, then you know that its desolation is near. “ Luke 21: 20

Jesus will call out his church before this battle takes place, and he will call when we least expect, so we must be ready.

Paul informed the Thessalonians that Jesus will call out his body of believers to meet with him in the air, before he returns to the Mount of Olives.  This  meeting is were both those who have died in faith are awakened and those who are alive, where our bodies will be raised imperishable. All will come together at this awesome event and meet Jesus face to face. 1 Thessalonians 4: 16-18. 1 Corinthians 15: 42, 46.

After this takes place those who come to faith they will suffer going through the tribulation, in this period of time there will be a build-up of tension between the nations against Jerusalem.

So, this is when I understand the times of Gentiles are fulfilled, when the full number have come to faith and Jesus returns and takes up the fight with the remnant of Israel and defeats the nations that will be led by the Antichrist.

Sometimes by understanding past events helps us to navigate our lives today.

God’s love reaches out to us as he earnestly desires to heal our wounds.

Lord, I lift to your throne of grace those who have been scarred by past events and those who are affected today by Paul’s words, people who feel rejected and wounded by being part of the branch ‘cut off’. God loves Israel and we shouldn’t judge them.

Jesus wants to heal our open inflamed wounds that will fester resentment, hatred and bitterness. All that Jesus suffered in his flesh, he was wounded for our transgressions and he bore them on the cross. “By his stripes, his wounds we are healed.” Jesus does it through his life laid down for forgiveness of sin, “On the cross Jesus was heard to say, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” Just as Jesus forgave his fellow-men and women in their words and treatment of him, so we come to our Father God and in Jesus’ name truly forgive those who have wounded us and were we have wounded others. Isaiah 53: 5, 10. Luke 23: 34.

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Christians Together Haslingden – Go and Tell the Nations

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March 9 2

Jesus’ instructions to us is to go and tell the nations about him.

A local Priest and Rabbi were fishing by the side of a road. After some discussion they thoughtfully made a sign saying “The end is near! Turn yourself around before it’s too late!” and showed it to each passing car. One driver that drove by didn’t appreciate the sign and shouted at them, “Leave us alone you religious nuts!” Shortly afterwards they heard a big splash. They looked at each other and the Priest said to the Rabbi, “You think we should just put up a sign that says, “Bridge out of order” instead.”

The ‘Churches Together’ leaders in Ramsbottom were inspired by Pastor Phil Burns #doyouknowHim? Campaign which took place in Skipton last year, to hold it in Ramsbottom. They also contacted Capernwray Bible College for some of their Students to help as part of their syllabus. They were with us for the first ten days during which they ministered in schools, youth groups and play groups,

27th January the Launch Service was held at St Paul’s with Bishop Mark spoke on Acts 9 Ananias’ witness to go and tell the feared Saul (Paul) of Tarsus  about Jesus, who had spoken to him on the Damascus Road. Bishop Mark and Phil Burns commissioned all taking part: the 8 Bible College Students, the Church in Ramsbottom leaders and volunteers. Before the start we’ve had a Training day, 24/7 prayer day and a prayer morning plus weekly prayer meetings. The campaign started 23rd February and ends 28th April (10 weeks.)

The emphasis throughout the campaign is that all Christians are ‘the church’ in Ramsbottom and knowing Jesus in a personal way. it’s great to meet brothers and sisters from other Church Fellowships. Every Sunday each church focuses on the same readings from the Bible.

In response to Jesus’ word, ‘To go and make disciples of all nations’ Matthew 28: 19.     Saturday 26th January Training Day for witnessing on the street.

 Pastor Phil Burn spoke from his experience, he gave us lots of pointers on the way to evangelise: he said, do not fear evangelism. there will be each week a theme to engage people with. and for us to enjoy and get excited about evangelism.

Phil noted how today people are burdened: the media concentrates on problems: Family strife and the breakdown in society values. He realised how they welcomed good news about Jesus, and so we are offering a message of hope.

Phil said, the art of connecting is with your story. We all have a story of coming to know Jesus.

Jesus’ disciples after being sent out twice: the  first occasion when only the 12 went out and later with the 72 so when they took the message out at Pentecost, so they were already experienced at evangelism. The difference was that at Pentecost the authority came from the Spirit of Jesus within them and the Holy Spirit empowering them and so it is with us today, Jesus’ love reaching out with the anointed words. Luke 10: 3. Acts 2: 14.

On Saturday 23rd February we gathered at St Paul’s Church for 9.30am for the briefing and prayer. We took out ‘Bags of Blessings’ .  A bag with several items in it. The label explained what the items represented in our relationship with Jesus.

march 9 1

A plaster – to remind you that God wants to heal your hurts.

A love heart – so you know how loved you are.

String – because wants to help you hold it together in tough times

Rubber – to remind you God forgives your mistakes and offers a fresh start

Star – to remind you that God will guide you forward.

Paperclip – so you are always organised

Kiss – so you know that God’s love is here to connect with.

We were sent out in two’s and three’s, the conversations with people varied: We engaged with a man from Nottingham, offering him a bag of blessing from the Church in Ramsbottom. He said that he was hoping to come and live in Ramsbottom. I mentioned the visit of Charles Dickens to the town and in his novel ‘Nickolas Nickleby’ it’s said, that he profiled the Cheeryble brothers on the Grant brothers of Ramsbottom. They built Square Mill and St Andrews church, where I attend and where I made my commitment to follow Jesus. The conversation was interrupted by the lady arriving to pick him up. Some refused the ‘the bag of blessing.’ But we had several opportunities to share our testimony with people and 20% were Christians.

(‘The Country and Church of the Cheeryble Brothers’ by William Hume Elliot)

Our witness to knowing Jesus that comes from a sincere heart, and can move a mountain of unbelief.

On the second week the theme was’ leaves of change’ We were to ask people about what changes would they want to see happen in the world and to invite them to write it on a leaf and if they were a Christian what changes to their life would they make during Lent.

March 9 4

I’ve found that various aspects of my story fit in with certain conversations that I’ve had on the street. For instance: Two young women late teens early twenties, when I offered them a pamphlet they were very anti-Christian, but very polite. I was able to recall to them, when I at a similar age and feeling very anti-Christian having had a car accident where a drunk driver hit my car from behind, while I was waiting to turn right. After that car accident I began to be ill with my nerves. Some years later, a man at work who had a healing ministry, he was a Baptist Minister, invited me to attend an evening Bible study at his church, that night I was prayed for and I was healed.    It made a great change to my life, one experience is worth a thousand arguments Jesus can change our nation, and our lives, The best had yet to com 3 years later knowing Jesus as my Saviour.

The change to the Christian Community in our town were the churches are united on this campaign to fulfil Jesus’ words, ‘They shall be one’ in Christ.  

Week three. Finger Puppets – Telling the story at a Puppet Party.March 9th Campaign

Last Saturday we gave out invitations to the ‘Puppet party’ at the Community Church (Pentecostal Church) located opposite the Library.

Even though it was cold, windy, with the occasional shower most people were friendly and stopped to converse and were given a finger puppet for their children with the invitation to ‘drop in’ at the ‘Puppet Party.’ It was well received  many went to the church where various types of puppetry gave opportunity for children to ‘have a go’ with the puppets and watch and listen to the Gospel story being told by the puppets and their puppeteers.

Others speaking to people on the street had been asked, ‘Who is the ‘Him’ that the hash tag refers to?” and with great delight witnessed their story of knowing Jesus in a personal way.

On the street, it was cold and windy I heard in the distance the steam trains whistle as it stopped at the station bringing visitors into Ramsbottom. Nothing could dampen the joy I held in my heart at being part of this witness #doyouknowHim? Campaign

Prayer

Lord, thank you for the opportunity to witness our faith, to meet people on their life’s journey and offer them the word of faith. 2,000 years ago it was made known to the world and that knowledge can’t be revoked that God’s love for us is revealed in Jesus where on the cross he took our sin of separation from God upon himself and through his resurrection we receive forgiveness and reconciliation between ourselves and God.

May many over the next 7 weeks through our turning to Jesus in faith and recognition of their sin against God and others, will ask God for forgiveness and enter into the Fellowship of the Church in Ramsbottom.  In Jesus’ name. Amen

By Dorothy Newton